In exchange, the Nationals received outfield prospect Erik Komatsu, the Brewers' minor league player of the year in 2010.

The versatile Hairston can play second base, third base, shortstop and all three outfield positions. The Brewers were looking to upgrade on the left side of their infield before second base also became a need when Rickie Weeks (ankle) landed on the disabled list this week.

Hairston, a 14-season major league veteran, hit .268 with four homers and 24 RBIs in 75 games with the Nationals this season.